Episode 9: What makes Bourbon, Bourbon?

Whiskey, Watches and Wheels

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics related to whiskey and bourbon. They start with a wristwatch check and then delve into what makes a whiskey a bourbon, including the percentage of corn, aging requirements, and the use of new oak barrels. They also touch on the regional associations with liquors and the labeling requirements for bourbons. The hosts discuss consumer behavior and the importance of reading labels to avoid overpaying for certain bourbons. The conversation covers various topics related to bourbon, including sourcing, blending, aging, and flavor profiles. It also explores the differences between bourbon and Scotch whiskey. The chapters provide insights into the bourbon industry and offer tips for developing a palate and understanding bourbon labels. The conversation concludes with a humorous story about raccoons getting drunk from water-filled whiskey barrels. In this conversation, the hosts discuss a specific topic and provide an educational overview. They cover the basics, explore advanced concepts, provide real-world examples, discuss challenges and limitations, and speculate on future developments. The conversation concludes with a summary of the main points discussed.

Takeaways

• The hosts provide a comprehensive overview of the topic, making it accessible to listeners who may be unfamiliar with it.
• They delve into advanced concepts and techniques, catering to listeners with a deeper understanding of the topic.
• Real-world applications and examples are discussed, highlighting the practical relevance of the topic.
• The hosts acknowledge the challenges and limitations associated with the topic and discuss potential future developments and trends.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Wristwatch Check

13:24
What Makes a Whiskey a Bourbon?

19:08
Regional Associations with Liquors

22:06
Blended Bourbons and Labeling

28:41
Consumer Behavior and Cost

30:23
Reading Labels to Avoid Overpaying

30:50
Sourcing Bourbon and Distilleries

32:10
Blending and Mixing Bourbons

33:23
Double Oak and Secondary Barreling

34:11
Barrel Aging and Taxation

39:30
Age and Sweet Spot

42:37
Influence of Corn and Oak Trees

45:23
Flavor Changes and Barrel Rotation

48:30
Marketing Hype and Barrel Selection

51:21
Bourbon vs. Scotch Whiskey

53:15
Developing a Palate and Smelling Techniques

59:39
Home Brewing and Aging Bourbon

01:00:44
Funny Story: Drunk Raccoons

05:00
Understanding the Basics of the Topic

15:00
Exploring Advanced Concepts and Techniques

25:00
Real-World Applications and Examples

35:00
Challenges and Limitations

45:00
Future Developments and Trends

55:00
Conclusion and Final Thoughts